Yesterday, the Province introduced new emergency management legislation: the Emergency and Disaster Management Act. Once brought into force, it will replace the current Emergency Program Act. UBCM has previously summarized some of the key changes that will impact local governments.
In addition to tabling the new Act, the Province has also announced a 14-person Expert Task Force on Emergencies, mandated to provide recommendations related to emergency preparedness and response prior to the 2024 wildfire season. This Task Force includes two local government members, from the City of Prince George and Thompson-Nicola Regional District, in addition to representatives from the Province, First Nations and other key groups.
The recent UBCM Annual Convention provided an opportunity for UBCM and its members to once again raise the need for a long-term local government funding and capacity-building framework, in order to meet the expectations of the new Act. While the Province has yet to announce any long-term financial supports, representatives did indicate that the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness was preparing to publish a number of guidance documents related to new and enhanced emergency management responsibilities.
We spoke with Minister Ma at Convention.